The 7 Types of Facelifts: A Comprehensive Guide by a Plastic Surgeon

As we age, the desire to maintain a youthful appearance becomes more prominent. Facelifts are a powerful tool in the arsenal of cosmetic procedures designed to combat the visible signs of aging. Dr. Shabnam Ghazizadeh , a leading facial plastic surgeon in Newport Beach , is committed to providing personalized, transformative enhancements that inspire confidence and celebrate natural beauty. In this guide, we will explore the seven types of facelifts to help you make an informed decision about which procedure  is right for you.

1. Deep Plane Facelift

Deep Plane Facelift (SMAS Facelift)

Definition and Purpose: 

A deep plane facelift , also known as a SMAS facelift, focuses on lifting and tightening the muscles and skin around the chin and neck area to create a more defined jawline and reduce sagging skin.

Procedure:

The surgeon delves beneath the SMAS layer, repositioning and reshaping it to achieve a youthful, radiant appearance.

Ideal Candidates:

Patients with significant sagging and deeper wrinkles, particularly around the lower face and neck, are well-suited for this procedure.

2. Upper Facelift

Definition and Purpose:

An upper facelift focuses on the forehead, reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. This procedure involves making incisions in the hairline and lifting the skin around the eyebrows.

Procedure:

Often paired with brow lifts or eyelid surgery, an upper facelift enhances the overall appearance by addressing multiple areas simultaneously.

Ideal Candidates:

Patients with drooping eyebrows and deep forehead wrinkles are ideal candidates for this procedure.

3. Mid Facelift

Definition and Purpose:

A mid-facelift targets the area between the eyes and mouth, including the nose, cheeks, and upper lip. It helps reduce creases, wrinkles, and sagging cheeks.

Procedure:

Fat is repositioned, and excess skin is removed through incisions made in the hairline and mouth.

Ideal Candidates:

This facelift is perfect for those looking to reduce nasolabial folds and improve the contour of their midface.

4. Lower Facelift

Definition and Purpose:

A lower facelift addresses the area below the mouth, particularly the jowls and neck. It tightens the skin and provides a more youthful appearance.

Procedure:

Often combined with a neck lift, the lower facelift involves making incisions around the jawline and neck to remove excess fat and tighten the skin.

Ideal Candidates:

Patients with significant jowls and loose skin around the jaw and neck benefit the most from the lower facelift procedure.

5. Complete Facelift

Definition and Purpose:

A complete facelift, or full facelift, combines upper, mid, and lower facelifts for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Procedure:

With the complete facelift procedure, incisions are made by the hairline, around the ears, and under the chin. The surgeon sculpts the fat and lifts the muscles before repositioning the skin.

Ideal Candidates:

The complete Facelift is ideal for individuals with severe signs of aging across the entire face.

6. Cutaneous Lift

Definition and Purpose:

This Cutaneous Lift focuses solely on the skin, trimming and stretching it for a smoother appearance.

Procedure:

During the Cutaneous Lift procedure, Incisions are made behind the ears and jawline to lift and reposition the skin.

Ideal Candidates: 

Those looking for temporary wrinkle smoothing without muscle tightening are suited for the cutaneous lift procedure. 

7. Liquid Facelift

Definition and Purpose:

A non-surgical option, the liquid facelift uses injectables to tighten and plump the skin.

Procedure:

Neuromodulators (e.g., Botox) and  fillers (e.g., Juvederm) are injected to smooth wrinkles and add volume.

Ideal Candidates:

Patients seeking a non-invasive, temporary solution for facial rejuvenation can benefit from a liquid facelift..

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for achieving the best results. Dr. Shabnam Ghazizadeh’s extensive experience and patient-centered approach ensure that each procedure is tailored to meet individual needs. Her commitment to empowering individuals through transformative enhancements makes her an excellent choice for those seeking facial plastic surgery.

Conclusion

Understanding the various types of facelifts can help you decide which procedure best suits your needs. Whether you’re looking to address specific areas or seek a full facial rejuvenation, Dr. Ghazizadeh offers a range of options to help you achieve your desired look.

Ready to explore your facelift options? Schedule a consultation  with Dr. Shabnam Ghazizadeh in Newport Beach to discuss your goals and see how we can help you achieve the results you desire. Book your appointment today.  

By following this comprehensive guide, you can make an informed decision about undergoing a facelift procedure, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome. For more information, visit Dr. Ghazizadeh's Facelift Before & After Gallery .